He laid on a couple of tries, was dangerous with the ball in hand and kicked three goals from four attempts, with Shaun Johnson the fan poll Man of the Match from the Sharks round one game against the Rabbitohs.
Following what he himself admits was perhaps his best pre-season preparation for some time, Johnson looked sharp throughout and only for a late Sharks pass to be called forward, could have helped steer the team to a dramatic come-from-behind victory.
Johnson polled 44 per cent of the vote to be a clear fan choice in the losing effort.
Also attracting fan support was Sione Katoa, the Sharks winger scoring two outstanding tries, one with a spectacular put down, while Toby Rudolf impressed in his debut match in the top grade.
Katoa polled 23 per cent of the vote, Rudolf 8 per cent, with the pair also collecting points in the year end Fan Poll player of the year.
Fan Poll Player of the Year - Standings
| Shaun Johnson | 3 |
| Sione Katoa | 2 |
| Toby Rudolf | 1 |
